“As you celebrate the birthday and Independence of America, know that your Alpha Company “Gators” of the 2nd Battalion 327th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) are celebrating also, in the newest country to enjoy independence, Iraq. Our celebration this year, and for all to come, will be special because we will have the recollection of having won a war for our country, liberated an oppressed nation, and watched the people of Iraq experience the beginning of a way of life that we Americans often take for granted, Freedom.
Freedom to choose their destiny, to use the nations resources for prosperity, to peacefully voice their opposition without fear of retribution. But Freedom is not free and liberty without laws would be chaos. The pursuit of happiness will take time, commitment and patience.
“Throughout American history soldiers have paid for Freedom with long separations, sweat and blood. Our price during Operation Iraqi Freedom was no exception, so take a moment to remember all the veterans who have been injured and killed in the service of our country.
“The soldiers of Alpha Company are walking, talking examples of America and we are as eager to tell the people of Iraq about us, as they are to learn about our country and us. The Iraqis we’ve spoken with, whether they were Sunni, Shiite, or Kurdish, all want the same things any of us want, that is, plentiful food, clean water, safe communities, a chance to work and succeed and a future for their children.
We come from different parts of the country and with different backgrounds but all of us in Alpha Company have come out of this experience with a better understanding of how blessed the USA is and what is the real meaning and opportunities allowed by Freedom.
“Our success as an Army and a Nation is due in no small part to its people. People like you in Malibu who believe in our country and showed your support of the soldiers through the cards, letters, and packages you sent us. Don’t think for a moment that the outcome might not have been different if you had not supported, motivated, and inspired us.
“On behalf of the men of Alpha Company, thank you, Malibu, and enjoy your independence on Independence Day.”
Barbara Kearsley